Why the Local Church Matters in a Pandemic
Our church recently gathered for the first time in months, and it was a surreal experience. Masks, social distancing, and open windows were all part of our new normal. Despite the unusual circumstances, one thing remained unchanged: our commitment to worshiping God together.
A Long History of Faithfulness
Throughout history, God’s people have gathered to worship Him in the face of adversity. From slaves in Egypt to exiles in Babylon, believers have consistently prioritized their relationship with God. The early church, too, faced persecution, but it only strengthened their resolve.
Why We Gather
We don’t gather simply because it’s convenient or comfortable. We do so because God has commanded us to assemble in His presence (Hebrews 10:25). In corporate worship, we speak to God through prayer and song, and He speaks to us through His Word and sacraments. This is essential to our faith.
The Dangers of Self-Sufficiency
The pandemic has created a false sense of self-sufficiency. With technology at our fingertips, it’s easy to believe we can navigate life alone. But this is a lie. We need each other, and we need the local church. Scripture emphasizes the importance of congregational life, from Adam’s need for companionship (Genesis 2:18) to the New Testament’s emphasis on community.
The Church as Family
As Christians, we’re part of a different kind of household – the household of God (Ephesians 2:19). Our fundamental family priorities haven’t changed, even in a pandemic. We still share our lives, care for one another, and prioritize our relationships.
A Job to Do
The church has work to do, and it hasn’t changed because of a virus. Jesus commissioned us to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). We each play a role in this mission, whether through prayer, financial support, or inviting others to join us.
A Glorious Future
It’s easy to feel discouraged by the apparent insignificance of our local churches. But when we glimpse eternity, we see that the best days of the church are yet to come. The apostle John wrote about a future where God dwells with His people, and we will be His people (Revelation 21:2-3).
Conclusion
In a pandemic, the local church matters more than ever. We need each other, and we need to prioritize our relationships with God and one another. As we look to the future, let’s remember that the church has a glorious destiny, and we’re honored to be part of it.
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